[PDF] Dont Panic The Engineering Physics Survival Guide

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Don't Panic.

The Engineering Physics Survival Guide

Intro

Hey...we've got some news for you.

The good news is you have made it into the Engineering Physics program, one of the most challenging programs here at UBC. The bad news is you are now in the Engineering Physics program, one of the most challenging programs here at UBC.

Wait. Hold off on the panic attack. And breathe.

The Engineering Physics program has a reputation for being... well...hard. But don't ever let that scare you or deter you. Many individuals before you have made it through the program and

while they are all self-declared masochists, it really isn't that bad. In fact, it is one of the most

rewarding programs offered here at UBC. The amount of knowledge you are going to gain is considerable and the challenges you are about to face are large, but that is part of what makes Engineering Physics so great. From solving complicated problems, working abroad, or achieving personal bests, the academic journey you are about to embark on has all the potential for being an incredible experience. It may seem painful at times, but there are ways to lessen the suffering and it will be worth it in the end. This survival guide is full of explanations and tips of what the Engineering Physics program is and what being a Fizzer means. It'll also give you pointers on the different classes you have to take, how to get that coop job you dreamed of, how to get into grad school, and best of all, how to make the most of the whole experience. Read the rest of this guide and slot it into the folder marked "learning resources" in your colour- coded, cross-referenced filing cabinet (what...you don't have one yet?) for your next scheduled panic attack. But don't stop there. Ask questions of the brave souls who have gone before you about Engineering Physics. The upper year students are fond of ranting bitterly about the bad things and raving ecstatically about the good, what they should have done back then and what they would do if they were you. With a grain of salt or two, you can gain a lot by listening to them about their experiences. In addition, your executives are there to make your academic journey a little less painful and a lot more fun.

So...

The bad news is fellow engineering students of other disciplines are going to look at you funny and may think of you as a nutcase for choosing a program that can be a little... er... intense. But the good news is that you're going to make it and this guide is here to help.

Table of Contents

The Engineering Physics Survival Guide.....................................................................................1

Intro.................................................................................................................................................2

Table of Contents ...........................................................................................................................5

Engineering Physics .......................................................................................................................5

What is Engineering Physics?..........................................................................................................5

The Soccer Analogy.........................................................................................................................5

What can I do with an Engineering Physics degree?.......................................................................6

Who's who?......................................................................................................................................7

Definitions.......................................................................................................................................9

Courses..........................................................................................................................................10

2nd Year.........................................................................................................................................10

3rd Year..........................................................................................................................................11

4th Year..........................................................................................................................................12

5th Year..........................................................................................................................................13

Tidbits on Math..............................................................................................................................14

On Minor in Commerce:................................................................................................................14

On the IT Minor:............................................................................................................................15

Something to Note:.........................................................................................................................15

Co-op .............................................................................................................................................16

Getting a Co-op Job ~Sandy Abley................................................................................................16

What to do at Career Fairs ~Sandy Abley......................................................................................17

How to Find A Co-op Job Using the "Sniper" Method ~Andrew Christie....................................18

Co-op Alternatives .........................................................................................................................23

Opting Out of Co-op ......................................................................................................................23

Beyond the Program ....................................................................................................................24

Guest Lectures & Seminars............................................................................................................24

Grad School....................................................................................................................................24

Research.........................................................................................................................................25

Getting Connected..........................................................................................................................25

Fizz.................................................................................................................................................26

Fizz Exec........................................................................................................................................26

The Penthouse................................................................................................................................27

Keys................................................................................................................................................27

Study Carrels..................................................................................................................................28

Fizz Mentorship Program...............................................................................................................28

Fizz Exam Tutoring........................................................................................................................28

Fizz Email Lists..............................................................................................................................29

Printing...........................................................................................................................................29

Physics Account.............................................................................................................................29

EUS Calendar...............................................................................................................................31

Clubs Within Fizz.........................................................................................................................37

Engineering Physics Entrepreneurship Club..................................................................................37

Aerial Robotics Club......................................................................................................................37

Electric Bike Club..........................................................................................................................38

Clubs Outside Fizz .......................................................................................................................39

Human Powered Sub (see Mech Eng Dept)...................................................................................39

Human Powered Helicopter...........................................................................................................39

Formula SAE..................................................................................................................................39

Super Heavylift ..............................................................................................................................40

RoboCup.........................................................................................................................................40

Mini Baja vehicle...........................................................................................................................40

Tips, Strategies and Encouragements ........................................................................................41

Where to Find Old Exams/Midterms.............................................................................................41

Good Study Strategies....................................................................................................................41

Sanity Maintenance......................................................................................................................42

Comic Relief..................................................................................................................................44

5

Engineering Physics

What is Engineering Physics?

Well, this is something you might struggle with when trying to explain to people what it is that you're studying in school. Essentially, it is the bridge between Engineering and Science where scientific discoveries are converted into tools that engineers can use. The program encourages team-based-project learning early on, teaches advanced concepts in math and physics, as well as how they are applied in mechanical, electrical and computer engineering. The results are students with a broad set of work options. Engineering Physics is a cross-disciplinary program that combines the best of both worlds: Know-How and Know-Why. You learn the practical and technical skills of an engineer, as well as the theoretical and analytical skills of a scientist. In other words, an Engineering Physics graduate will be able to take the theory they learned and apply it to solve novel (as opposed to routine) engineering problems. Engineering Physics is rather unique in that it is considered one of the Engineering disciplines in Applied Science, yet it operates out of the Physics and Astronomy Department under the umbrella of Science. Confused? Yeah, me too, but it seems to work. This is also true for Co-op. "Engineering Physics is an Honours Physics degree with an engineering component tacked on at the end"

The Soccer Analogy

The international world of soccer provides a good background upon which to compare engineering disciplines. Electrical Engineers - They are the German national team. They play by the book. They are formal, rigid and regimented. Mechanical Engineers - They are the English players. They like to kick the long shots, hope to get lucky and generally enjoy the game. Engineering Physicists - We are the South American teams. We are creative, flashy and we like tricks. However, we can be stubborn and arrogant. We work hard and we are used to winning. 6 What can I do with an Engineering Physics degree? You can do pretty much anything you want. The broad educational background prepares you for rapid changes in technology as it gives you the tools to learn and adapt to any situation. If there's a piece of leading edge technology that piques your interest, it's likely an Engineering

Physics graduate has had a hand in it.

Here are a couple examples of what Fizz grads are now doing:

Iain Verigin

Director of Product Strategy at PMC Sierra Colin Harris Vice President of Integrated Circuit Technology at PMC

Sierra (one of the founders)

Ken Spencer

One of the founders of Creo Richard McMahon Former CEO of Galian Photonics, Former CEO of Techware (acquired by Brooks Automation), also worked as a venture capitalist for Venture West

Bjarni V. Tryggvason Canadian Astronaut

Other examples of what grads have gone on to become are:

Professors

Lawyers in IP

Medical Doctors

MBA's and Finance Professionals

7Who's who? Dr. Bill McCutcheon, Engineering Physics Director Last year Dr. McCutcheon stepped up as the Acting Director and we are lucky to have him. He is the go-to person if you ever have any questions or issues about the Engineering Physics program and his door is always open (unless he's not there). Friendly and personable, he is very concerned with making sure you have the best experience you can possibly get while earning your degree. He will readily offer you advice and direction on things you may be uncertain of, such as your specialization, focus or technical electives. While you may feel like you're just a number at UBC, Dr McCutcheon is always happy to meet and get to know another engineering physics student. Eileen Campbell, Engineering Physics Program Coordinator As the Program Coordinator, Eileen is in charge of the behind the scenes administration. If you're having trouble registering for a course she will do her best to get you in it, she also organizes your standard timetables and makes sure you take all the courses you need in order to graduate. Sharon Chan, Engineering Physics Co-op Coordinator

Are you not sure if your résumé is up to par or uncertain about what to say during interviews? Do

you want to develop your own co-op job but aren't sure where to start? Whether it's your first or your last co-op job, Sharon will help you find and land that job you're looking for. Dr. Jeff Young, Physics and Astronomy Department Head

Former Engineering Physics Director

Dr. Young graduated from the Engineering Physics program in 1979 and was the Engineering Physics director from 1999-2003. He is now the Head of Physics and Astronomy, but due to his experience mentioned above he is quite aware of the needs and concerns of engineering physics students.

Their contact info:

Name Title Phone Email Office

Dr. Bill McCutcheon

Engineering Physics

Director

604.822.6234

enph at physics.ubc.ca

Henn 262

Eileen Campbell

Engineering Physics

Program Coordinator

604.822.6451

enph at physics.ubc.ca

Henn 333A

Sharon Chan

Engineering Physics Co-op

Coordinator

604.822.1384

epcoop at physics.ubc.ca

Chem/Phys

170
8Dr. Jeff Young

Physics and Astronomy

Department Head

604.822.3150

head at physics.ubc.ca

Henn 337

9

Definitions

Terms used throughout the Survival Guide you might not readily be familiar with. Fizz An elite organization comprised of students of supreme intellect and of a higher echelon; also known as Engineering Physics.

Fizzer An Engineering Physics student

Penthouse The Fizz clubroom, located on the top floor of Hebb Physsoc The Physics Student Society comprised of fellow chess players with more "debating of entropy" and less "the beauty of ball bearings". Sandy Abley Former Engineering Physics Coop Coordinator

Smack Ice cream sandwiches mmmmm

10

Courses

So what kind of things do you need to learn to become a real Fizzer? Well that depends on what you want to specialize in and what you want to focus on. Your 2 nd year is cross-disciplinary and includes a number of Physics and Math courses that provide the background you need for subsequent courses. Before registering for your 3 rd year courses, during the summer of 2 nd year, you will be asked to declare your specialization. Once again, you will not automatically be accepted into the specialization of your choice. There are limited seats available in the Mech option and students will be ranked according to 2 nd year marks. In your 4 th and 5 th years you'll have the opportunity to choose technical electives and focus your studies on topics that interest you most.

2nd Year

APSC 201 - Technical Communication

All assignment must be formatted EXACTLY as laid out by the instructor. Always ask the instructor how they will be marking the upcoming assignment.

APSC 278 - Engineering Materials

For the most part, a necessary evil. The course is fairly interesting, but requires a lot of memorizing and is now taken by correspondence during your first work term.

CPSC 252 - Program Design and Data Structures

Tough, but that's what you expect for 4 credits! You should know what to expect from last year's CPSC. Do the labs and use the TAs.

EECE 251 - Circuit Analysis I

DO the problem sets. You'll find there's not much to this course if you just stay on top of it.

MATH 217 - Multivariable and Vector Calculus

Learn your grad, flux and curl well! Or prepare to suffer the wrath of electrodynamics...

MATH 255 - Ordinary Differential Equations

An unusually easy course in Fizz (for some). The concept of differential equations is extremely important and useful in practice. When it comes to solving them, certain tricks will be reused again and again in other courses while others are simply ignored.

MATH 307 - Applications of Linear Algebra

Eigenvalues and Eigenfunctions are good things to know! The math and methodology comes in handy when dealing with Modern Physics and Quantum Mech.

PHYS 250 - Introduction to Modern Physics

Take advantage of the fact this can be an interesting course.

PHYS 253 - Introduction to Instrumental Design

An excellent, hands-on, practical course. Probably THE best you'll ever take at UBC and taught by one of THE best instructors, Dr. Marziali. By the end of the robotics course you'll have a good overview of how different branches of engineering are related and can be combined. You'll encounter some long nights and frustrating times, but it's all well worth it.

PHYS 257 - Thermodynamics

Work hard on the labs (they're worth 50%)

PHYS 258 - Principles of Photonics

It's all about principles not calculations; get help from the TA if you don't understand. The tests are straight from the sample problems.

PHYS 259 - Experimental Techniques

Dr. Auld is a tough Lab Book marker.

PHYS 270 - Mechanics ll

You've all taken Physics 170 so this is just more of the same. By some strange stroke of luck, most Fizzers actually find this course easier than 170.

Complementary Studies Elective- see below

11

3rd Year

APSC 279 - Engineering Materials Laboratory

This is actually a pretty fun and easy class. It's kind of reminiscent of a high school lab.

EECE 253 - Circuit Analysis II

Again, do the problem sets.

MATH 257 - Partial Differential Equations

The most important thing is the concept of Fourier Series. If you learn nothing else from the course, learn that, otherwise it'll come back to haunt you in a few other courses.

MATH 300 - Introduction to Complex Variables

This course actually starts off pretty easy for those of you that are familiar with the letter i. Don't be fooled though, you need to keep up with this course or you'll get a nasty shock at the final. MATH 318 - Probability with Physical Applications The rumour goes....somebody just decided STAT 251 was too easy and did not fit properly with the rigor of our curriculum. One of the most interesting math courses you'll ever take (particularly if you're into gambling), but be aware that by the end of the course you will have covered a lot of material.

MECH 280 - Fluid Mechanics

A nice change from all the math and physics you'll be doing. The tutorials can be VERY helpful. Once again, do the problem sets (are you starting to see a pattern?)

PHYS 350 - Applied Classical Mechanics

If you're feeling a little lost, don't worry. No one understands this stuff. And yeah, the textbook is a grad level textbook.

PHYS 352 - Laboratory Techniques in Physics

The first lab write-up that you do might seem a little scary, but it's not really that bad. Once you get the hang of it, this course goes fairly smoothly. Unless you know how to program in Labview, avoid that lab.

PHYS 354 - E&M Fields

Have a good review of your grad and curl. You'll need it. Probably the most math-intensive physics course you'll ever take in Fizz. PHYS 454 - Applications of Electromagnetic Theory Some courses can just be painful. This is one of them. Electromagnetic theory can actually be very useful though so try to learn this. -------

EECE 254 - Electrical Circuits I

Circuits and more circuits. Do the problem sets or else when the midterm and final come around you might realize that you don't know as much as you thought you did.

EECE 256 - Digital Logic Design

Pretty basic and easy to get a good grade in as long as you keep up with the material. It's not particularly difficult, so it's worth the effort for the grade.

EECE 259 - Introduction to Microcomputers

Try to think like a machine, that's probably a good start. This is kind of an odd course in that it's basically all about knowing the manual.

EECE 320 - Discrete Structures and Algorithms

Basically another math course. You learn a lot of proofs, similar to what you may have already done in Philosophy 120 or Math 220. Most people found it quite boring, and the tests were frickin' long, but it's not too difficult to get a good mark. ------- MECH 260 - Introduction to Mechanics of Materials 12

MECH 352 - Design of Mechanical Components

MECH 357 - Engineering Design

4th Year

ENPH 459 - Engineering Physics Project I

Get a good start on your proposal early on and try not to take any harsh criticisms too personally. Remember, you start this course while on coop in your 4 th year and also remember to send in the weekly reports and write in your logbook. You really need to get your hands dirty with this one, and when it comes to the end, drop everything and start writing that report.

MATH 301 - Applied Analysis

This is why you need to pay attention in Math 300. This course is actually kind of interesting for a math course because you learn how to map complicated realistic problems to simple ideal ones.

PHYS 450 - Quantum Mechanics

If you're having trouble understanding where everything is coming from, it's likely your neighbour is going through the same thing. Some things can get a little abstract, but concentrate on knowing your math and don't be fooled by an open book test, you need to know the material before the exam. This is definitely a course to study and do your problems in groups.

Complementary studies elective - see below

-------

EECE 359 - Signals and Communications

Most of it is Fourier Transform for EE. Use it to further familiarize yourself with Fourier Transform. Seriously, it is used everywhere. Whatever job you take, there is probably some

Fourier stuff somewhere.

EECE 360 - Systems and Control

Remember, a text book can be your friend. Good luck!

Technical Elective -

-------

MECH 365 - Machine Dynamics and Vibrations

MECH 370 - Thermal Systems

Technical Elective -

-------

CPSC 315 - Introduction to Operating Systems

CPSC 318 - Machine Structures

CPSC 352 - Introduction to Software Engineering

5th Year

APSC 450 - Professional Engineering Practice

Up until this year this was a "Just show up" and do a couple assignments class. Apparently it's changing this year, so be prepared. This is one of those classes where you get to see all the other engineers, but it's also good to know some of the rules about the work conditions you'll be getting yourself into as an engineer.

ENPH 479 - Engineering Physics Project II

Once you've taken Eng Phys Project l you'll know how to deal with this course. MATH 400 - Applied Partial Differential Equations Infamously known as the most difficult course in Fizz. Practice, practice, practice.

PHYS 455 - Statistical Mechanics

Listen to Dr. Zhou, every once in a while he'll say something ridiculously funny.

PHYS 458 - Applied Optics

13 This is actually an interesting and understandable course. The revue of optics from first year at the beginning of the course is a nice change from the usual plunge headfirst into the unknown. The labs are actually kind of fun too.

PHYS 473 - Applied Nuclear Physics

Concentrate on the details. Units are very important.

PHYS 474 - Applied Solid State Physics

Hard, but you may find some overlap in some of your other courses if you're in electrical. -------

MTRL 478 - Electronic Materials

This course can just be plain boring, but the nice thing is that the teacher means well. The course text isn't that badly written and if you know it well, you know the course. Expect to have to look things up for the assignments though. EECE 450 - Economic Analysis of Engineering Projects Most fizzers could probably do fine in this course by just using the textbook and doing the assignments.

EECE 453 - Communication Systems

Not the most interesting course you'll ever take, but not particularly difficult either.

EECE 454 - Digital Communications

Boring. Read your notes and do the practice problems.

EECE 356 - Electronic Circuits ll

More Circuits. You will be very chummy with transistors by the end of this.

2 Technical Electives -

------- EECE 485 - Digital Instrumentation for Mech Systems

MECH 431 - Engineering Economics

MECH 465 - Mechanical Vibrations

MECH 466 - Automatic Control

2 Technical Electives -

------- EECE 450 Economic Analysis of Engineering Projects Most fizzers could probably do fine in this course by just using the textbook and doing the assignments.

3 Comp. Sci Courses

3 Technical Electives

On Complementary Studies Courses:

Most of you will have taken your English class and one Humanities/Social Sciences class in first year. The Complementary Studies credits scheduled for your 2 nd and 4 th years are then your final 3 credits of Humanities/Social Sciences, and 3 credits of Impact on Technology. Many people take their 4 th year complementary studies course at night while they're on coop in the first term. Keep in mind that you must also plan and write your proposal for the Eng Phys Project

Lab l during this time.

Some good Humanities/Social Sciences classes:

If you enjoy English, you can always take another English class.

Some good Impact on Technology courses:

Poli 361A International Violence and Its Control

Tidbits on Math

"I generally believe that for most "high-end" technical jobs (research scientist, research engineer, part of an engineering team developing unconventional new products etc.), you can't 14 have too much math background. Once you get to a threshold in math knowledge, where you feel confident about tackling most any well-defined physics or engineering problem that might come your way, there is no turning back. Having said this, the math requirements in Eng Phys

should be sufficient to get you to this threshold. Thus there is absolutely no question that you are

better off doing very well in the existing core program, than taking extra math courses and doing considerably worse in everything you take. There are a few very gifted people who seem to be able to take the math honours and still do fantastically well in the whole program. It is students that seem to have that potential that I really encourage to take math honours, after pointing out what I just mentioned." - Dr. Young Many times we learn new Math in our physics class prior to learning it in our math class. Math is such a crucial part of Eng Phys that all of us fizzers have to take Math 400. Rumour has it that this is considered the hardest undergrad applied math course at UBC. Some words of advice passed down from the higher Fizzers is to ensure you never fall behind in learning the Math. The impression is that the only way to pass Math 400 is to do well in all the previous math courses. (This sounds dreary but you'll have an easier time when you have to take it)

On Minor in Commerce:

If you have taken ECON as your humanities elective, then the Minor is quite a good "deal." You only need 3 extra courses. The accounting one is very simple, and useful if you have never taken Accounting before. The marketing course proves to be quite practical as well. For the elective, the finance course is great.

On the IT Minor:

Thus far, student feedback has been extremely negative. Basically, "take it at your own risk."

Something to Note:

If you are paying for your own education and must work during school, you may find rather more difficult to get through the program. In that case, you should contact Dr. McCutcheon to arrange a reduced load schedule. 15

Co-op

Contrary to popular belief, co-op in Engineering Physics is not mandatory. The whole point is to

gain practical, technical experience and although co-op is a great way to do this, it isn't the only

way. The following are some tips on how to land a co-op placement and some alternatives to gaining technical experience through other work and projects.

Getting a Co-op Job ~Sandy Abley

1) Get your resume and cover letter checked by the Coordinator and if possible get it

checked over and revised BEFORE school starts in Sept. Due to competition with other universities we are starting to post jobs earlier and earlier. This means your packages have to be ready to go RIGHT away.

2) If you have sent out 20 applications and have no interviews, this is a sign that something

is wrong with your application, get it checked

3) Do NOT be picky about what you will do. If this is your first "real" job, you need to get

EXPERIENCE and contacts. And sometimes the most valuable experiences are the unexpected ones.

4) Work hard...no matter what you are doing or your level of responsibility. People will

remember you. Even though you are a student, you are establishing your reputation.

5) Don't forget that family, friends, friends of friends, professors, teachers, the dentist,

etc...all know people who can help you. Networking is not scary; it's just talking to people and letting them know what you're interested in looking for.

6) Be kind and respectful to everyone you meet and your classmates...they are your future

colleagues and perhaps future business owners/partners.

7) Good formatting and well written cover letters DO help you land interviews

8) Try to apply to at least 5 to 10 jobs a week - those who try hard will eventually find a job.

It's extremely rare for someone who has worked hard NOT to get a job.

9) Visit the Co-op coordinator at least once a week if you are still searching for a job. This

keeps you on top of mind and shows you really care about your job search. Almost all students who do this are extremely successful.

10) If you need help, ask for it. Everyone wants to see you succeed.

11) Be OPTIMISTIC! I firmly believe that there are jobs out there for everyone.

12) MOCK interviews. Book at least one mock interview...it can really make a difference.

1613) During your first week on the job, sit down and talk to your direct supervisor about
his/her expectations and goals for your work term. This will give you some direction and establish that you care about getting the job done right.

What to do at Career Fairs ~Sandy Abley

Why are you there? What is your purpose? If it's to do some research and networking, then have questions ready. Come prepared. If it's to find a job, come prepared with many copies of your resume and be ready to be interviewed on the spot. For example, when I was at the Microsoft booth a couple of years ago, they did not want you to leave your resume and run. They take your resume and screen you on the spot. And they were taking notes right on your resume. You are already being short-listed as you stand there! If you just leave your resume there and walk away without talking to the recruiter, you are wasting paper.

Questions they asked:

1. When are you graduating?

2. What do you want to do? Be really specific. Give them lots of choices.

3. What's the coolest thing on your resume? (Don't make them ask why!)

4. What are you excited about?

5. What makes your program better than _________. (You and I know that your

program is great...but you must know how to effectively market YOUR program). You are the ambassadors for the Engineering Physics Program!

What they are looking for:

1. Interest and enthusiasm

2. 'A shine in your eyes'

3. A friendly person with excellent communication skills

4. Smiles, a sense of humour

5. Maturity

6. Confidence (remember it's in your body language and in your voice)

What are positive things you can do?

1. Dress appropriately in a nice shirt and pants. Leave your skate board and roller blades at

home.

2. Ask intelligent questions about the company

3. Politely ask for company information

4. Do not simply drop off your resume and run off! The whole point of being there is so that

they can put a face to a resume. You're wasting your time and theirs otherwise you could have just faxed or e-mailed them your resume.

5. Make yourself shine above others. (ie. Bring brochures about ENG PHYS) tell them

about your goals; you don't just want junior positions forever, talk about your desire to become a project manager, etc 6.

A firm hand shake

7. Look people straight in the eye!

178. Be a great ambassador for your program. E.g. For the year 2001 and 2002, the average
GPA of students being accepted into ENG PHYS was 82%. Don't assume these people know how great and selective your program is! How to Find A Co-op Job Using the "Sniper" Method ~Andrew Christie

Dear Fellow Eng Fizzers,

I have had an incredible experience with the co-op program so far and I owe an indescribable amount thanks to Javed, Sandy, and Sharon for making that possible. I have learned a great deal about finding jobs from the Science Co-op department. For some of you this method will not be ideal. It is particularly useful for outgoing people with a thirst for knowledge. If you have a general lack of interest in specific fields of engineering/ research, you may find some of the steps to be very difficult. Also, you need to be at least slightly outgoing to make the people-connections possible.

Steps of the "sniper" method:

0) Meet as many senior Eng Fizzers as possible and ask them about their co-op experiences

(make the connections)

1) Be patient - When things look grim, remain optimistic. Don't give up.

2) Be ready to put in lots of effort (if you are not motivated, you will not find a job... simple as

that) You WILL get rejected. Be prepared for that. With the economy the way it is these days, you should expect ~1 interview for every 20 "quality" applications. Many of the people you contact will simply not be hiring. Also, if they don't want to interview you then trust me, it is likely that you would not like that job anyway. What you should be looking for is a job you want and a job that wants you. Keep in mind that when you go after jobs that you don't want, the interviewer will sense that.

So that's why...

3) Pick three specific "fields" of research/engineering that you are interested in. For example:

Environmentally-friendly technologies/ alternate energy/ fuel cells/hydrogen storage solutions. You might ask "Isn't that too specific?" or "Won't that limit the number of companies that I can apply to?" 18 Well, lets take a look at how many companies that narrows us down to: -number of companies/research institutions (worldwide) working on alternate energy technologies ~2000 (a wild guess) -number of those working on fuel cells ~200 -number of those working on hydrogen technologies ~120 -number of those working on hydrogen storage ~20 Of course those numbers are going to vary depending on your pickiness, but 20 companies is ideal for one field. You don't want to spread your efforts too thin, but you also don't want to apply to too few companies. Remember, you are choosing three (more or less) fields of research/engineering. That leaves you with ~60 companies to apply to.

4) Learn as much as you can about those three things on the internet (the fastest way for an

internet junkie such as myself). Then refine your interests further by gaining experience/knowledge of those fields in the labs/ at home/ with professors/ with the connections you have made. The bonus here is that you can use very similar cover letters for the ~20 companies. That way you can put a huge effort into three specific cover letters. You can show off a significant amount of knowledge when you are that focused. This will make everything from here on in easier. I like to call it the "sniper method".

5) Target the top research labs/ companies/ universities in those areas of research/engineering

As I said above, there should be roughly 20 (or more if you want to be more conservative) for each of the three fields you chose. And when I say "target" I mean it. Don't just apply on their web site. Learn about the companies, find out who the key researchers are, search for patents, search for research papers, learn who the "celebrity" scientists are in that field (believe me, we have quite a few of them at UBC!). A really good way to find out about specific "experts" in a given field is patent and research papers. These documents will always have the full names of the experts. READ their paper. Usually they will be surprised that you were so keen that you actually read what they are doing. This will almost certainly give you some ammo for a cover letter or even an interview. You should learn how to do patent searches and research paper searches anyway :)

6) Briefly submit your resume to HR. - Be aware that you are just added to a "pile" of resumes.

7) Try to actually meet someone with hiring power (a manager, an engineer, or a researcher).

Sometimes this will happen when they come to visit UBC for a guest lecture. Sometimes a career fair. Sometimes people in the co-op department will know the person! 19 If you really know your stuff, you will know who the big names are in your area if interest. Track them down (don't do anything illegal), but there is nothing wrong with calling a company and asking for a specific individual. Often these people are too busy for a phone call. See if you can get their email (depending on the company, this may be strongly discouraged). Sometimes the email is really easy to guess!! Disclaimer: keep in mind that doing this can make the HR department pretty mad at you. So make sure you are not stepping on any toes. Explain that the person is an expert in your field of research/engineering and that you need to ask them some important questions regarding their research.

8) Try to send a semi-formal letter in the form of an email (or possibly a voice mail). Formality is

good (e.g. say Dr. for a PhD)... but don't make it sound like a cover letter. This should not be a regular cover letter, because they will simply add you to the "pile". When you do get an email address or a phone number, tell them about your interests and ask them for advice!!! You might be pleasantly surprised. ------------ This is the point where you have already achieved THE most difficult part: getting noticed. From here on in, you need to be very professional. You have already "stood out" so there is no need to take large risks. Submit a formal cover letter to your contacts with a resume attached. I would recommend putting the cover letter in the body of an email, or if email is the main form of communication, send your cover letter and resume directly to the "expert" via mail. Another bonus is that your interview will be a lot easier. It should be easy for you to ask lots of questions when you get interviewed, because you will have read so much about the field already. Half of the interviews I have had were more of "conversations" than they were interviews, because we just talked about common interests the whole time!

Good luck, and feel free to email me at

andrewlp at physics.ubc.ca.

Cheers,

Andrew

20Co-op Alternatives The recommended choice of action if you don't get a co-op job is to take classes, however there are a couple of alternatives:

1) Entrepreneurial Co-op

This is similar to regular co-op in that it is paid work, but different in that much more work and effort is necessary compared to a regular job. This alternative has more freedom but requires more responsibility as it is self-moderated. It also requires a lot of prep before the work term. You have to make a business plan and budget, find sponsors and customers for the good or service you intend to provide, as well as developing the product itself. This is much more difficult compared to a regular co-op job, however, the experience could be well worth the effort and be very rewarding. For more detailed information contact the Co-op Coordinator or the Engineering Physics Entrepreneurial

Club.

2) Technical Experience

Similar in scope to the Project Lab projects, you choose a project and write a big report after several months of work...usually unpaid. The good part is this would require only as much work as a regular work term and you get some choice as to what project you work on. For more information see Dr. McCutcheon and Dr. Davis about projects and sponsor companies.

Opting Out of Co-op

Although there are alternatives to completing co-op, students are strongly encouraged to participate in the coop program to gain technical and industry experience. Opting out of the Engineering Physics Co-op program is possible; however, you must still fulfill technical experience requirements. This includes working for at least 8 months of work in an engineering related field, and/or completing an industry sponsored project in ENPH 459, ENPH 479 or ENPH

480*. If you choose to opt out of co-op you must notify and speak with Dr. Young.

* ENPH 480 is an additional project course regular Engineering Physics students have the option of taking. However, in most cases if you choose to opt out of co-op, this additional project course is mandatory. 21

Beyond the Program

Guest Lectures & Seminars

Fizz and the Physsoc collaborate to set up over a dozen physics and engineering physics related lectures. Fizz usually organizes 3 or 4 of these lectures and some of the lecture topics in the past have included Biomedical Engineering, Artificial Muscles and Nanotechnology. Please talk the Board of Studies Rep, Adrian Groves and Darren Thompson of the Fizz exec if there is an area or topic you are interested in learning about, or if you have contacts with possible speakers. The lecture series schedule can be found at http://www.physics.ubc.ca/~physsoc .

Grad School

You may or may not have thought about continuing with Grad School yet, but keep in mind that your 3 rd Year marks will help. Rumour has it there are a few ways to get into Grad School:

1) Maintain good grades

- Keep an average above 80% in your 3 rd and 4 th year courses and have no W's on your transcript (requirements may differ slightly depending on the school you are applying to)

2) Don't take an excessively long time to finish your degree

3) Have good research capabilities

- This is well suited for someone in Engineering Physics since we are enrolled in a number of project courses, intensive labs and have a thorough math and physics background.

4) Getting published

- Not only is this helpful to getting into Grad School, it's great for your résumé too. Not only does it show your good capabilities to do research, but also shows your ability to think creatively and put what you've learned to use; thinking outside the box, as it were. This is key for Grad School because it is a very different learning environment than undergrad. Just as there are people with brilliant book knowledge lacking in technical skills, there are people who do very well in a structured undergraduate setting but struggle when it comes to the more self directed grad studies. Getting published (as in a paper in a scientific journal of some kind) shows your ability to learn well in a more self-guided setting and is something prospective schools would certainly be looking for. Having said that, getting a paper published is no easy task. Most of the time the paper has to be refereed, or evaluated by a professional who must decide if the work is worth publishing. If given the opportunity, you may work on part of a project (for coop or in the project lab) that is going to have publishable results, and your name may (depending on your contribution) appear on the paper. Even without that opportunity, you may try to write a paper yourself and submit it to an undergraduate journal or competition. The Canadian Undergraduate Physics Journal (www.cupj.ca ) is an excellent example. The process of paper-writing definitely helps you understand your project better and appreciate other people's papers more. For coop, if you discuss with your faculty 22
advisor beforehand, it is possible to write your coop report in the format of a scientific paper.

Research

UBC is really a great place to pursue graduate studies. There is an immense amount of research

going on here! If you talk to the profs and look into it, you'll find a number of Engineering Physics

grads in many corners of the university. Visit the engineering and physics websites, and scan the research topics for anything that strikes you.

Getting Connected

We are often told to focus on what we're passionate about. All of us can and do excel at what we enjoy. Many of us fill our work terms (and for some, the rest of the school year) helping do research at UBC or abroad. Engineering Physics is a great program to help set you up for Grad School or even a future in research. The main problems are 'I like everything' and 'Who do I talk to if I want to learn more or get involved?' You're on your own if you like everything. As Fizzers we tend to be good at a lot of things but watch out for something that may stand out. As for getting connected, a great place to start is the web. Check out the research tabs on departmental and personal webpages to learn about what's going on here at UBC. You might also talk to Dr. Young, Dr. Davis, Dr. Auld, and Dr. Marziali, but keep in mind all profs do research (although much of it may be theoretical physics). Also, talk to other students. Let everyone know what you're interested in pursuing and someone may pass you a name to pursue. 23
Fizz "Fizz" is the Engineering Physics student organization. We're smaller than clubs like Mech and Civil, but we're also bigger than clubs like GeoRox. Fizz is a unique club whose members are not only academically successful, but are also diverse, social and show a high level of camaraderie. It's not uncommon to see Fizzers working together on homework assignments, absorbed in a game of chess, or picking each other's brains. You'll also find Fizzers involved with the many different clubs on campus, competing on all levels of intramural sports, or sitting around an impromptu music jam session. Overall, Fizz is comprised of a dynamic and well- rounded people with a wide variety of skills and backgrounds.

Fizz Exec

The Fizz Executive is comprised of students dedicated to school but also committed to ensuring the sanity of its club members. From organizing social events to providing study space to speaking to the "Big Wigs" on your behalf, these good folks are there to make your journey through Engineering Physics as painless and as worthwhile as possible. And maybe even fun! We're responsible for the going-ons in Fizz and making sure things are running smoothly. Some of the events you can look forward to this year include: TODAY! BBQ at the Penthouse

Thursday, October 7

th Fizz Night Out - Get to know your profs and peers outside the classroom Wednesday, November 24 th Fizz Dance Night - All engineers and friends welcome

February 6

th - 12 th E-Week Events Tuesday, April 5 th Fizz Social Night - A formal night with profs and alumni Thursday, April 28 th Year Ender Bonfire at Wreck Beach Summer Fizz Summer Adventure Fizz will also be participating in a number of Intramural Sports and Events. Look out for sign-up sheets in the Penthouse and email announcements. If there's a particular sport or event you would like to take part in, contact the Sports Reps Ralph Botha and Evan Morris.

Below is a list of your caring and daring executives. Note that this list is not final in that everyone

is more than welcome to take a leadership role, no matter how small, within Fizz. Feel free to come out to the meetings and volunteer to be on a committee or keep up to date on what is going on, how your money is being spent and what the next cool event is. Also note the blank spot at the bottom of the list. The 2 nd year rep will be elected in September...will it be YOUR name on the list? 24

Name Position Email

Leanne Sharpe Co-President lcsharpe at interchange.ubc.ca Rosalyn Seeton Co-President rmseeton at interchange.ubc.ca Jimmy Koo Vice President ngao at interchange.ubc.ca Mark Radford Treasurer markhr at interchange.ubc.ca Allison Schaap Secretary amschaap at interchange.ubc.ca

Alex Babakov SoCo alex_babakov at hotmail.com

Ralph Botha Co-Sports Rep rabotha at interchange.ubc.ca Evan Morris Co-Sports Rep ecmorris at interchange.ubc.ca Adrian Groves Board of Studies (Elec) argroves at interchange.ubc.ca Darren Thomson Board of Studies (Mech) darren.thomson at shaw.ca Keith Dunwoody Comp Admin kstephen at interchange.ubc.ca Colin Janssen Co-Pop God janssencolin at hotmail.com

Damir Hot Co-Pop God hot at interchange.ubc.ca

Keddie Brown House Rep dakeddie at interchange.ubc.ca

Vivide Chang Grad Rep vividec at yahoo.ca

Peter Eugster 4

th Year Rep eugster at interchange.ubc.ca

Eric Cessford 3

rd Year Rep cessford at interchange.ubc.ca 2 nd Year Rep Tim Blair Mentorship Coordinator tjblair at interchange.ubc.ca Matt Chudleigh Ball Model Rep matt_chud at yahoo.com Billy Lau FilmfEUSt Rep billylau at physics.ubc.ca

The Penthouse

Located on the top floor of Hebb, "The Penthouse" is the Fizz clubroom. Here you'll fellow Fizzers diligently studying, furiously "referencing" homework or chilling out on the couches. The furniture was recently purchased as a gift from the graduating fizzers of 2004. It boasts one of the best view locations on campus as well as its very own patio! In the Penthouse, there is a phone (604.822.4897 or 604.UBC.GUYS), as well as several computer terminals located in the back you can use. Study carrels, $0.75 pop, smack and other goodies are available throughout the year. Please keep in mind that the Penthouse is a student run space, so clean up after yourself and try to use your common sense. Keys You aren't required to get a key to the Penthouse and it might seem like a bit of a process to get it, but it can be quite handy sometimes. Here's how you do it:

1) Decide what key(s) you want and get in touch with the appropriate person:

Penthouse - send an email to the Co-President, Rosalyn Seeton, with your full name Hebb & Hennings Buildings - to be authorised through Fizz for this key you need to be a member of the Fizz exec. Alternatively, when you take ENPH 459 and 479 you can see

Dr. Davis in person for him to authorise you.

2) Once you have sent an email to the Rosalyn, she will inform Zahra Karim in the Physics

office. You then need to go see Zahra in Henn 325 and show her your student card or other photo ID. She will give you an authorisation form.

3) Bring the form to Parking & Security, located in UBC Admin Building (located on the NW

corner of University Blvd and Wesbrook) 25
Costs*: $20 deposit to open an account with Parking & Security $50 deposit for the Penthouse Key $20 deposit for a Hebb/Hennings Key * You'll get the deposits back once you return the keys.

Study Carrels

If you are interested in renting a study carrel for a mere 5$/semester send an email to the VP Jimmy Koo. A study carrel is basically a tiny room with a door, a chair, some shelves, and a surface for studying. Carrels are assigned on a first come, first serve basis but when they are in high demand priority is given to senior students. Some fizzers choose to share a carrel to split the cost and make them available to more people. Fizzers are encouraged to use the carrels as STUDY spaces, not just storage spaces. There are also open study areas in the Penthouse where everyone is free to work.

Fizz Mentorship Program

The FIZZ Mentorship program was set up by a former Grad Class and is the easiest way to start getting connected. The Mentorship Program lets you get advice from Fizz alumni, people doing all kinds of interesting things like R&D, grad school, law school, entrepreneurship and even med school, as well as upper year Fizz students. If you would like to get involved, please email the Mentorship Coordinator, Tim Blair, with some

brief information about yourself (e.g. name, year, specialization, interests, future goals). There is

no long-term commitment, we will work with you to find an appropriate mentor and hope that students will be willing to become mentors in the future.

Fizz Exam Tutoring

This service was started last year. Basically, a few senior fizzers get together and review all the

material for the first year physics classes. It's a good way to make some money for our club, to keep on top of those "basics" you learned in first year, and hopefully to help some first years through a tough exam or two. We would like to expand and improve the tutoring this year to include the Christmas exams. Keep your ears open if you're interested in participating in this, but be aware that it does require you to prepare the sessions and familiarize yourself with the subjects during an already hectic time of year. The last thing we want is for your grades to suffer.

Fizz Email Lists

You be receiving emails from the physics and engineering physics departments on ep lists (eg ep2 at physics.ubc.ca). Everyone in engineering physics is on these lists, but they are for departmental use so you do not have permission to send to them. If you have given us permission, we will put you on the fizz email list so that you will receive weekly updates of

anything that's important for you to know (academically, socially, mentally, etc). If you would like

to be on the fizz list, but did not sign up for it, contact the fizz computer administrator Keith Dunwoody. As a member of the list, you will also be able to email everyone else in your year for help on homework or any other problems you may have. To email your year's list, send to fizz2 26
at physics.ubc.ca or to email all years, send to fizz at physics.ubc.ca. Your membership on this list is a privilege and will be revoked if you abuse it by sending inappropriate or continuously annoying spam. These lists are very useful for keeping people informed; just remember that nobody wants a hundred emails a day. You will also be receiving emails from the physics and engineering physics departments on the ep lists. Everyone in engineering physics is on these lists, but you do not have permission to send to them.

Printing

Last spring some 3rd year fizzers applied to PAF (Professional Activities Fund) for money to put towards printing so that all 2nd and 3rd year Fizz students could have some free print credits for the Hennings Lab. Everyone gets around 50 pages - not a lot, just enough to print off the odd resume or lab report when you can't find a printer anywhere else. If you want your credits for this year, you need to be signed up for an account in the Hennings Lab by Friday, September 24th. If you do this then you will automatically get your credits in late

September. If you don't, then you won't be able to get them later in the year, it's a one-time offer.

Something to keep in mind when you are all alone on campus without a credit or money or a printer is that there are places that provide free printing if you know where to go. You can print in the Penthouse provided you bring your own paper. This printer is not meant to be used to print off your entire term's notes though, and the print quality is not very good so it's not recommended for resumes.

Physics Account

Your physics account provides you with an email address and webspace. This can be a great place to practice your web development skills and post your resume for potential employers to peruse. Check out the Web Publishing and Secure Login links on the physics website http://www.physics.ubc.ca/computer/welcome.phtml for help with setting up and accessing your webspace. If you're still totally lost, ask around at the Penthouse and you'll be sure to find a Fizzer that was in your shoes but is older and wiser now and would be happy to help you. 27

EUS Calendar

Check out what's happening this year. Keep your ears and eyes open for these events, we want to see YOU there. Also, be aware that a date may change here or there. If you thought you knew what the EUS was all about, think again. There are some really fun events being planned and they'll only be better if you give them a try. Remember, you're here to receive an education, but you're allowed to have a little fun along the way. There are some activities not included on this calendar such as Spring Picnik, BC Lions game, and Hamburger Hockey. A newer version of the calendar will be posted online and events will also be advertised in weekly email updates

September

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday 1234 5

6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Imagine/

EECE

Pancake

Breakfast FIZZ Welcome

Back BBQ/

MTRL

Welcome Back

BBQ EUS Cheeze

Tub

13 14 15 16 17 18 19

AOE Open

House MINE

Welcome Back

BBQ/ AOE

Welcome

Meeting AOE Bake

Sale EECE Ohm-

Coming/ GEO

Back From the

Bush

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

AOE/SPD

BBQ "joint

rush event" - AOE

Tournament

Night CIVIL

Welcome Back

BBQ/ EUS

Frosh Retreat EUS

Frosh

Retreat EUS

Frosh

Retreat

27 28 29 30

MTRL Foosball

Tourney MECH BBQ

October

28
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday 1 2 3 EECE

BBQ/AOE

Theme Party

4 5 6 7 8 9 10

SongfEUST/

FIZZ Pub Night MexiCHEM or

OktoberfEUSt /

GEO Retreat GEO

Retreat/A

OE

Preferenc

e Party GEO

Retreat

11 12 13 14 15 16 17

Thanksgiving

Weekend MexiCHEM or

OktoberfEUST

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

FWAT Animal

House AOE

Pledge

Night

25 26 27 28 29 30 31

MECH BBQ CIVIL/GEO/EU

S Halloween

Ball -

MTRL/AGGIE

Beer Garden

November

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

EECE BBQ

8 9 10 11 12 13 14

MINE Pub

Crawl

15 16 17 18 19 20 21

MECHtacular (November continued) 29

22 23 24 25 26 27 28

FIZZ Dance

Night MECH BBQ IGEN Party

29 30

Miscellaneous

Events: FIZZ Tutoring

(nov-dec)

December

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday 1234 5
EUS

Christmas

Carolling/

EECE X-MAS

Party/MECH

XMAS Party

6 7 8 9 10 11 12

14 Not

Forgotten

13 14 15 16 17 18 19

PP Party

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

27 28 29 30 31

January

(2005) Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday 30
1 2

3 4 5 6 7 8 9

CIVIL Ski Trip/

GEO WIUCG CIVIL Ski

Trip/ GEO

WIUCG CIVIL Ski

Trip/ GEO

WIUCG

10 11 12 13 14 15 16

17 18 19 20 21 22 23

EUS Freeze

Tub

24 25 26 27 28 29 30

WECC/ MTRL

Conference/

MECH BBQ WECC/ MTRL

Conference WECC WECC

February

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

31 1 2 3 4 5 6

EUS Foreplay /

MINE Roosters

Night EUS E-

Week